Things To Do
in Tocaima
Tocaima is a small, river-side town in Cundinamarca, Colombia, nestled along the Magdalena River valley. The town exudes colonial charm with a compact historic center, friendly locals, and markets that bustle with produce and crafts. Its warm climate and relaxed pace make it a popular escape from busier cities like Bogotá.
Visitors can enjoy easy hikes, river activities, and approachable local culture just a short drive from the capital region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tocaima and settle into your accommodation while soaking in the local ambiance. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional dishes like arepas or empanadas. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to familiarize yourself with its iconic sites and friendly atmosphere.
Spend the afternoon visiting the main plaza, exploring the vibrant local market where you can find handmade crafts and local produce. Treat yourself to a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Colombian cuisine. Visit the nearby Tocaima River for a tranquil afternoon by the water.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local eatery, trying out Tocaima’s specialities such as ajiaco or bandeja paisa. Experience the lively evening atmosphere at a local bar, where you can mingle with residents and sample Colombian drinks like aguardiente. Reflect on the day's adventures as you walk back to your accommodation under the starlit sky.
Start your day with breakfast in town before heading out to the renowned thermal baths of Tocaima. These natural hot springs provide a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate your body in a beautiful setting. Spend the morning soaking in the warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by nature.
After a therapeutic morning, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers a view of the lush landscape. Spend the afternoon hiking in the surrounding hills to explore the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife of the area. Capture stunning photos and appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.
Return to Tocaima and take a leisurely evening stroll, engaging with locals and enjoying the laid-back vibe of the town. Have dinner at a casual dining spot, indulging in freshly made seafood dishes. Spend the night at a local venue experiencing traditional Colombian music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee at a local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transit | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $25-70 |
| 🎟️Entrance to attractions | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed river-town vibe with easy access to nature.
- Friendly locals and authentic, affordable cuisine.
- Quiet nightlife and limited large-scale entertainment.
- Fewer large-scale tourist services compared to bigger cities.
- "Hola, buenos días." - Hi, good morning.
- "¿Cómo está?" - How are you?
- "Por favor." - Please.
- "Gracias." - Thank you.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Tocaima
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated river views and broad valley panoramas ideal for golden hour photography.
Historic church and surrounding streets offering classic colonial architecture and colorful facades.
Riverfront walk with pedestrians, boats, and reflections on calm water at dawn or dusk.
Cobbled square with market life, warm lighting, and locals gathering in the evening.
Food in Tocaima
Tocaima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn-based arepa commonly found at street stalls and markets.
Must-Try!
Hearty corn and meat stew with plantains and avocado.
Tamales wrapped in plantain leaves, filled with pork or chicken and vegetables.
Traditional maize-based drinks enjoyed with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Smaller market stalls around the main square with snacks, arepas, and daily staples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake or light kiss on the cheek in familiar settings. Politeness and warmth are valued in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Tocaima
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not already included. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest 1000-2000 COP or a small amount is common. Carry small bills for tips to vendors and guides.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many restaurants also take cards. Some smaller shops may be cash-only. ATMs are available in larger towns nearby, and mobile payment apps are increasingly common in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings sunny days, clear skies, and comfortable evenings. Ideal for outdoor activities and river views; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Afternoons can bring showers and higher humidity. Pack a light rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and protect gear; mornings are often clearer for activities.
Tocaima at Night
Hiking in Tocaima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail along the river offering views of the valley and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A moderate hillside loop with sweeping perspectives over Tocaima and the river.
A short excursion to a nearby waterfall area with scenic cascades and lush vegetation.
Airports
How to reach Tocaima by plane.
Bogotá's main international gateway; provides widespread domestic and international connections. Accessed by road from Tocaima via major highways.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly rural-to-town populations with strong community ties.
Visitors from Bogotá and other parts of Colombia seeking a quick river escape.
Tourists who visit for weekend getaways, markets, and nature outings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally, with local leagues and casual games in plazas.
Common among locals for recreation and commuting; scenic routes along the valley are popular for weekend rides.
Played in schools and community centers; occasional local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tocaima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable soups, rice and bean dishes, salads, and plantain-based sides; ask for no meat or fish and confirm that broths are meat-free.